Ed Hamell of Hamell on Trial is one of the most exciting and brilliant songwriters to come our way in years. The New York-based Hamell is a one-man punk band, and what with his frantically strummed and heavily amplified acoustic guitar and wonderful vocal delivery; simultaneously bleak, touching, and hilarious songs; and propensity for telling long and very amusing anecdotes you won’t even notice he’s up there all by himself. You’ll be too busy laughing, or being moved by the man’s incredible empathy for the damaged, the downtrodden, and the damned.

Hamell has released numerous LPs on various labels including his own DIY label and frequent touring mate Ani Difranco’s Righteous Babe Records, and they’re all great. And while songs like “I Hate Your Kid” and the homicidal “Tough Love” may lead you to think he’s a cynic, nobody could be less so, as songs like the hilarious but ultimately moving “First Date”—and “Blessed,” “Whores,” and “Mom’s Hot” off his forthcoming LP The Happiest Man in the World on New West Records prove. Ed Hamell has a heart of gold, and I can honestly say he was without a doubt the kindest, funniest, and most knowledgeable musician I’ve ever interviewed.
Michael H Little

Be early to avoid disappointment. Doors 8.00pm
£9 OTD / £7 Members (Yep that’s a £2 saving on many gigs for being a member of The Adelphi Club)

with support from The Pub Corner Poets (several spoken word performers) and ‘Nothings Happening’.